Sepsis is a potentially life-threatening condition caused by the body’s response to an infection. The body normally releases chemicals into the bloodstream to fight infection. Sepsis occurs when the body’s response to these chemicals is disrupted, causing changes that can impair the function of many organs.
If sepsis goes into septic shock, blood pressure drops dramatically. This can lead to death.
Causes of sepsis
The disease can be caused by any bacteria such as staphylococci, enterococci, streptococci and many others. The cause of generalized infection can be:
- purulent necrotic skin lesions;
- trauma and burns – especially extensive or deep injuries;
- infectious processes in the urinary organs;
- pathological processes in the abdominal cavity, e.g. complicated pancreatitis, appendicitis;
- purulent-inflammatory processes in the oral cavity, ear, etc.
Whether the disease will occur depends not only on the pathogenic microorganism, but also on the state of the human immune system. For example, staphylococcus aureus on mucous membranes in some people does not cause any pathological processes, while in others leads to the development of sepsis with fatal outcome.
Symptoms of sepsis in adults
The disease is characterized by a variety of symptomatology, which depends on its course, etiology. Manifestations can be both minor and critical. The most common signs of sepsis:
- increased or decreased body temperature, chills;
- confusion;
- difficulty, shallow, rapid breathing;
- profuse sweating;
- severe pain or discomfort in the body;
- increased heart rate, weakened pulse, or decreased blood pressure;
- pale gray skin color;
- decreased diuresis (amount of urine).
In addition to these symptoms, there are signs of the primary source of infection – the formation of abscesses, phlegmons, wound suppuration, etc. Due to marked intoxication, there are multi-organ changes of varying severity. Against the background of a feverish condition, a person becomes lethargic or excited, he is bothered by drowsiness or insomnia.
Risk factors for sepsis
Certain groups of people are more susceptible to developing sepsis. Risk factors include:
- Age (newborns, elderly people over 65 years old);
- Chronic diseases (diabetes mellitus, cancer, kidney and liver failure);
- Weakened immunity (patients after organ transplantation, chemotherapy, HIV-infected);
- Recent surgical interventions or invasive procedures;
- Prolonged artificial ventilation;
- Prolonged use of intravenous catheters or urinary catheters;
- Extensive burns, trauma, wound infections.
When to see a doctor
Sepsis most often occurs in people who are hospitalized or have recently been hospitalized. People in the intensive care unit are especially vulnerable to developing infections that can lead to sepsis. If you develop signs and symptoms of sepsis after surgery or after hospitalization, seek medical attention immediately.
Treatment of sepsis
At the heart of the treatment of sepsis is the correct selection of antibacterial therapy. It is based on the determination of the form of the pathogen, stage and severity of the disease. Drugs are administered in large doses, taking into account the sensitivity of bacteria and the patient’s reaction. Also in the therapeutic tactics can be included:
- Sulfonamides. They suppress the infectious agent, temporarily reducing its ability to reproduce. There are short- and long-acting agents (with cumulative effect).
- Enhanced nutrition. To increase the resistance of the body, the patient is necessarily introduced to a protein diet. Vitaminized medical mixtures are recommended.
- Specific serum, gamma-globulin. Are a source of immunoglobulins that allow you to destroy bacteria.
- Surgical treatment. Directed at excision of the affected tissues and drainage of the gate of infection.
- Osmotic ointments. Have pronounced antiseptic and sorption properties.
- Blood transfusion. It is indicated in violation of hemostasis.
- Oxygen transport. To alleviate the condition, respiratory support and infusion of solutions to normalize electrolyte balance.
Prognosis and prevention
The disease carries a high risk of complications:
- impaired respiratory function and gas exchange;
- impaired filtration capacity of the urinary system;
- increased blood clotting;
- polyneuropathies and difficulty breathing on his own;
- septic shock and psychosis.
The prognosis for sepsis should be given with caution. This is an unpredictable disease that develops rapidly. Recovery is influenced by the characteristics of the pathogenic microflora, the general condition of the patient at the beginning of the disease, as well as the timeliness and correct choice of therapy tactics. Sepsis runs most unfavorably in the elderly and emaciated patients with concomitant diagnoses. Prevention is based on timely treatment of inflammatory diseases, immunity support, as well as compliance with sanitary standards in medical facilities.
Conclusion
Sepsis is a serious and life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical intervention. Early diagnosis and timely treatment significantly increase the chances of recovery, while proper antibiotic therapy and supportive measures help avoid severe complications. Particular attention to the symptoms of sepsis should be paid by people from risk groups, including elderly patients, people with chronic diseases and weakened immune systems.
Prevention of sepsis includes control of infectious processes, observance of personal hygiene rules, sanitary measures in medical facilities and timely treatment of any inflammatory diseases. Only a comprehensive approach to the prevention and treatment of sepsis will reduce its prevalence and increase the chances of patients’ full recovery.
